RLE File Extension

What is RLE file?

RLE filename suffix is mostly used for Run Length Encoded Bitmap files. RLE files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Mac OS, Windows. RLE file format, along with 522 other file formats, belongs to the Raster Image Files category. Users are advised to use Adobe Photoshop software for managing RLE files, although 15 other programs can also handle this type of file. Software named Adobe Photoshop was created by Adobe Systems Incorporated. In order to find more detailed information on the software and RLE files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support RLE file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with RLE files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with RLE suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with RLE extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening RLE files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with RLE files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Adobe Photoshop

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening RLE files is that no program that can handle RLE files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe Photoshop or different compatible program, such as Adobe Illustrator, PaintShop Pro, Converter Pro. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Adobe Photoshop installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Adobe Systems Incorporated website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Adobe Photoshop

If the problems with opening RLE files still occur even after installing Adobe Photoshop, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Adobe Photoshop is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Adobe Photoshop cannot handle files with RLE may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Adobe Photoshop is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Photoshop to RLE files

After installing Adobe Photoshop (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open RLE files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the RLE file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Adobe Photoshop installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open RLE files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected RLE file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with RLE extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the RLE is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the RLE file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the RLE file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the RLE file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the RLE file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the RLE file’s structure is intact

If the RLE file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the RLE file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Adobe Photoshop

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support RLE files. Close all running programs and try opening the RLE file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Run Length Encoded Bitmap files. It may be the case that the RLE files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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